President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has appointed lawyer Bret Monsanto as commissioner of the Presidential Commission for the Urban Poor (PCUP) under the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).
The appointment, dated Aug. 13, 2025, designated Monsanto to replace Michelle Anne Gonzales, who currently serves as the PCUP Chairperson and CEO.
“Pursuant to the provisions of existing laws, you are hereby appointed commissioner, Presidential Commission for the Urban Poor, Department of Social Welfare and Development, vice Michelle Anne Gonzales,” the appointment paper read.
Monsanto previously served as chief of staff to former Cebu governor Gwendolyn “Gwen” Garcia.
The PCUP, through its leadership, welcomed Monsanto’s appointment. In a statement on Aug. 18, Gonzales congratulated the new commissioner and expressed optimism for his leadership.
The commission added that Monsanto’s appointment should serve as “inspiration and guidance for more effective service for the welfare of the urban poor” and as “a path toward greater change and hope for the development of urban poor communities.”
The PCUP serves as the direct link between the government and the country’s urban poor communities, ensuring their concerns are addressed in policy-making and development programs.
